NHRC reviews 86 bonded labour cases in Haryana, calls for stricter vigilance
New Delhi, July 10 (TNT): The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) on Friday reviewed 86 cases of alleged bonded labour in brick kilns across various districts of Haryana and directed authorities to strengthen identification, rescue and rehabilitation measures while ensuring strict adherence to prescribed procedures.
The cases were heard through an online hearing presided over by NHRC Chairperson Justice V. Ramasubramanian in the presence of Joint Secretary Samir Kumar, Joint Registrar (Law) Indrajeet Kumar and other senior officials. The hearing was attended by Haryana Chief Secretary Anurag Rastogi, Labour Commissioner Vijaykumar Bhavikatti and District Magistrates from across the state.
Justice Ramasubramanian observed that in most cases, records had not been examined properly by the concerned officials, resulting in a lack of credible evidence to declare the workers as bonded labourers.
He urged officials to remain vigilant while dealing with such cases and directed them to strictly follow the Standard Operating Procedure for Identification and Rescue of Bonded Labourers and Prosecution of Offenders issued by the Ministry of Labour and Employment on May 14, 2026, while constituting inquiry teams.
The NHRC Chairperson also stressed the need to establish a dedicated helpline to enable labourers to seek assistance and facilitate timely reporting of bonded labour cases.
NHRC Joint Secretary Samir Kumar emphasised compliance with the Commission’s directions and implementation of its “Advisory 2.0 to Identify, Release and Rehabilitate Bonded Labourers.”
During the hearing, the Haryana Chief Secretary, Labour Commissioner and District Magistrates presented the status of the cases, while the Commission reviewed the Action Taken Reports (ATRs) submitted by the district administrations.
The Haryana government assured the Commission that all 86 cases would be reviewed afresh and the required reports would be submitted.
It also assured full compliance with the directions of the Supreme Court and the provisions of the relevant laws to ensure prompt remedial action in bonded labour cases.
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